Bookkeeper gets 20 years for stealing from Mission Houses

A former bookkeeper for the Mission Houses Museum was sentenced in state court this morning to 20 years in prison for using a computer to steal nearly $60,000 from the non-profit by paying herself unauthorized salary increases and overtime.

Judy Vierra admitted her crimes when police confronted her, rejected a plea offer from the prosecutor then went to trial where she again admitted stealing the money.

The 20-year prison term is mandatory for using a computer to commit first-degree theft.

The Hawaii Paroling Authority will decide how much of the 20 years Vierra must spend behind bars before she is eligible for release on parole.

Vierra must also repay the Mission Houses Museum the $59,627 she stole from Aug. 31, 2008 to Mar. 31, 2010.